We are hugely grateful to everyone who has helped support us since we started in 1982, in particular our founders and funders, our colleagues from Rape Crisis England and Wales and Cambridge Women’s Aid, and all the volunteers who have worked so hard to keep us going.

Testimonials

I am much less angry and confused. I feel more in control of what is going on than I did.

[It helped] to have someone listen and believe what I say.

Talking with my therapist […] was really helpful for many aspects of my life.

I'm not really sure if I can find the words to say how grateful I am for being given the recent counselling.
It has changed my life immeasurably, and got me through some really difficult things and thoughts. I have no idea how I would have got through it without the support I have received. From challenging me on negative thoughts, helping me find hope and understanding to encouraging me to take time out from work when I really needed it, I can't imagine how anyone could have done a better job.

They are doing a great job offering support to rape victims in the community, make them open up about how they feel, it is great they are available to talk to, because they are something you do not want to discuss with family or friends. Just because we all think they will be judgemental.

My protective shell now lets the air through! I don't feel responsible for protecting every young woman. I don't feel the need to be on constant alert for danger.

[My ISVA] didn’t judge and was always there for me when she said she would be.

Non-judgemental, honest caring people who have been with us every step of the way.

[My counsellor] was an incredible listener and gave me confidence for everyday life. Understanding the emotions surrounding rape was also useful.

[I value] the fact I was able to talk about things in my own time and pace. Not feeling pressured at all. I felt listened to and more importantly, believed.

[I have learned] that I can write about things other than depressing subjects, and there are people out there who will support and encourage you no matter how ‘damaged’ everyone else labels you, and you are not alone in what you’ve been through.

I had no idea what to expect and I was very nervous but soon realised that it was okay and I did not need to worry.

[My counselling was] non-judgemental, [a] safe space to talk and cry.

I will never be able to thank my ISVA enough for everything.

[Counselling gave me a] more positive outlook on life in general and me feeling that you able to control how you deal with any situation that's thrown at you, even if you have no control over the situation itself. I also have a higher sense of self-belief.

[Counselling gave me] a space in which I feel comfortable in talking about my emotions and memories.

It has made me feel more confident in terms of speaking out about what happened to me. The counselling has helped me deal with everyday emotions and situations which I could not talk to anyone else about. I feel more comfortable now to open up and speak to a counsellor honestly now I've built their trust.

Fantastic counselling, with such a kind and patient counsellor.

[The ISVA Navigator] was lovely and made me feel comfortable about speaking about what had happened and she was able to tell me what will happen next.

[Counselling] helped me to realise I had all the coping strategies there but just needed affirmation. I now believe in myself.

I only received counselling, but that was what I wanted and needed.

[Having an ISVA] made me feel relieved of the pressure of reporting on my own, meaning I had more brain power/capacity to do other fulfilling things.

Amazing support.

[The counselling was] a space to talk about my worries and insecurities surrounding abuse without it being difficult.

[Because of the counselling] I understand myself and my emotions better.

There have been no intrusive questions. I don't have to mention details, which make me feel uncomfortable. Everyone is understanding and really friendly. I value that the support is free and in such a nice environment. Everyone believes you.

I was really impressed with the support and kindness I experienced from the ISVA service. It gave me confidence to start dealing with the situation. It's a great service.

The continuity of our sessions helped me cope on a daily basis. Couldn't have made it this far without this service.